Jackie Young has made history after signing a groundbreaking new deal with the Las Vegas Aces, becoming the first player in WNBA history to earn more than $1 million in salary. The reported contract, valued at about $1.19 million, marks a major milestone for women’s professional basketball and reflects the league’s steady growth.
The 27-year-old All-Star guard has been a key figure in the Aces’ dominance in recent years, helping the team secure three championships in the past four seasons. Her new deal not only rewards her performance but also signals a new era of financial progress in women’s sports.
Jackie Young’s Historic WNBA Contract Signals New Era for Player Earnings
Young’s new contract is reportedly the highest allowed for a player not eligible for the league’s supermax deal, making her the first to cross the $1 million threshold under current salary structures. This achievement highlights how far the league has come in improving player compensation.
“I’m incredibly grateful to the Aces organization and our amazing fans for their continued belief in me,” Young said. “From the moment I got drafted here, the Aces organization and entire Las Vegas community have made this place feel like home.”
Her milestone deal comes at a time when conversations around pay equity in sports are gaining more attention. As a result, Young’s contract is being seen as both a personal win and a broader victory for women athletes.
Las Vegas Aces Dynasty Fueled by Jackie Young’s Impact
The Aces’ success in recent years has been closely tied to Young’s consistent performance and leadership. According to team executive Nikki Fargas, Young has been “a foundational piece” of the team’s championship run.
Over the last four seasons, Young has elevated her game significantly, earning four All-Star selections and multiple All-WNBA honors. Her competitive drive and ability to perform under pressure have helped the Aces become one of the most dominant teams in the league.
Furthermore, her contributions go beyond scoring. Young’s versatility on both ends of the court has made her one of the most complete guards in the WNBA today.
Standout 2025 Season Cemented Young’s Elite Status
Young’s record-breaking contract follows an outstanding 2025 season where she delivered career-best performances. She averaged 16.5 points and 5.1 assists per game, along with 4.5 rebounds and an impressive 89.4% free-throw percentage.
During the playoffs, she raised her level even further, averaging a career-high 20.4 points and 5.5 assists per game. Her efforts were crucial in leading the Aces to another championship title.
Notably, Young also recorded multiple triple-doubles during the season, placing her among a small group of elite players capable of impacting every aspect of the game. These performances solidified her reputation as one of the league’s top talents.
Career Achievements and Growth Since No. 1 Draft Pick
Since being selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2019 WNBA Draft, Young has steadily developed into a franchise cornerstone. Her early years showed promise, but the last four seasons have marked a clear transformation into an elite player.
She now ranks among the Aces’ all-time leaders in multiple statistical categories, including points, assists, and steals. Additionally, her 176 career wins before turning 28 set her apart as one of the most successful players of her generation.
Her journey from a promising rookie to a million-dollar athlete reflects both her dedication and the evolving opportunities within the league.
From Notre Dame Star to Olympic Gold Medalist
Before entering the WNBA, Young built an impressive résumé at University of Notre Dame, where she played three seasons and helped lead the team to the 2018 NCAA championship.
During her college career, she earned multiple honors, including ACC Tournament MVP and All-ACC recognition. She averaged 12.4 points, 3.5 assists, and 6.3 rebounds per game, showcasing her all-around abilities early on.
In addition to her professional success, Young is also a two-time Olympic gold medalist, further cementing her status as one of basketball’s most accomplished players.
